Penang International Airport Welcomes Cambodia Airways’ New Direct Service From Phnom Penh

Penang International Airport (PEN) today welcomed Cambodia Airways (KR) as its 18th foreign airline, marking the launch of the first direct service between Phnom Penh (PNH) and PEN. The twice-weekly service, operated using an Airbus A320 aircraft, is Cambodia Airways’ second international route to Malaysia, complementing its existing Phnom Penh–Kuala Lumpur service.

According to Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, “As the second new airline to commence operations at PEN this year, following Sichuan Airlines, Cambodia Airways’ entry strengthens Penang’s position as a key northern gateway and enhances our strategic role in advancing regional air connectivity. More importantly, this new direct link with Phnom Penh aligns with the ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan 2025, reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to deeper regional integration. It opens new pathways for trade and cross-border collaboration, positioning Penang as a vital node in the ASEAN economic network.”

Beyond Cambodia, Penang already offers direct flights to key ASEAN countries including Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Myanmar, cementing its status as an emerging hub for commerce and tourism in the region. The arrival of Cambodia Airways reflects PEN’s continued efforts to broaden its network and improve passenger connectivity in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026.

From January to May 2025, Penang International Airport recorded 3.4 million passengers, a 12.0% increase compared to the same period last year. Of this, 53% were international passengers and 47% were domestic.